How to Get a Hair Metal Guitar Sound

When it comes to capturing that glam rock vibe, getting the right hair metal guitar sound is essential. Known for its flashy solos, power chords, and screaming harmonics, hair metal defined an era of rock music. Whether you’re aiming to cover classics or bring some of that flair into modern playing, understanding the nuances of this iconic sound can make all the difference.

Choosing the Right Guitar

Let’s kick things off with the basics: the guitar itself. Hair metal guitarists often favored certain models that delivered both visually and sonically. Think of those guitars with wild paint jobs, but more importantly, think of the ones that had the punch and sustain needed for those big arena sounds.

Popular Models:

• Superstrats: Companies like Ibanez, Charvel, and Jackson created guitars that combined the classic Stratocaster shape with hotter pickups and faster necks. These were perfect for shredding solos and sustained notes.
• Les Pauls: While not as flashy, Les Pauls brought a thick tone that could fill up a stadium. Think Slash from Guns N’ Roses; his Les Paul was integral to his sound.
• Flying Vs and Explorers: For those who wanted to go a bit wild, Gibson’s Flying V and Explorer models offered both a unique look and a powerful sound.

While the guitar is important, don’t stress if you don’t have a high-end model. It’s more about how you dial in the sound and your playing technique. That said, having a guitar with a good set of humbucker pickups is a big plus for that fat hair metal tone.

Dialing in the Amp Settings

Once you’ve got the right guitar, the next step is your amp setup. Hair metal is all about that powerful, overdriven sound that can cut through a mix. Here’s how to set up your amp to get those iconic tones.

Gain and Overdrive: Cranking up the gain is crucial. You want a thick, saturated tone. However, be careful not to overdo it; too much gain can muddy your sound. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where your power chords and solos sing.

EQ Settings:

• Bass: Hair metal guitarists often kept the bass moderate. You want enough to support your sound without overshadowing other frequencies.
• Midrange: Mids can be a bit tricky. Boosting them can help your sound cut through, especially for solos, but too much can make your sound honky. Aim for a balanced midrange that complements your bandmates.
• Treble: This is where the brightness and attack come from. Dial up the treble for a crisp, cutting sound, but watch out for excessive sharpness.

Consider using a solid-state or tube amp. Tube amps often provide that warmth and natural overdrive, but many artists in the hair metal era used solid-state for reliability on the road. Try both to see what fits your style.

Pedals: Adding Some Spice

Pedals are your secret weapon when it comes to crafting a hair metal sound. They can add depth, texture, and effects that are hard to achieve with just your amp.

Distortion and Overdrive Pedals: While your amp provides some gain, a distortion pedal can push it even further. Look for pedals that provide a rich, creamy distortion without losing clarity.

Chorus and Delay: These are essential for that wide, lush sound. A chorus pedal can thicken your sound and make those single-note solos feel more expansive. Meanwhile, delay adds depth and can help you achieve those echoing solos reminiscent of the era.

Wah Pedal: Want to channel your inner Kirk Hammett? A wah pedal can add expressiveness to solos and riffs. It’s not just about the “wah-wah”; it’s about adding dynamics and character to your playing.

Experiment with different combinations to see what works best for you. Remember, pedals are tools to enhance your creativity, so there’s no right or wrong answer—just what sounds good to your ears.

Perfecting Your Technique

Having the right gear is only part of the equation. Your playing technique is just as crucial. Hair metal is known for its technical solos and tight rhythms, so honing these skills will elevate your sound.

Alternate Picking: This is a must for fast solos. Practice slowly at first, focusing on accuracy. Speed will come naturally over time as you build muscle memory.

Legato and Tapping: These techniques are often used in solos for a smooth, fluid sound. Practice hammer-ons, pull-offs, and tapping exercises to improve your dexterity.

Pinch Harmonics: Those screaming squeals are a hallmark of hair metal. Experiment with different pick angles and thumb positions to nail those harmonics.

To get these techniques down, consider checking out Riffhard. We have lessons from some of the best metal guitarists who break down these techniques step-by-step, making it easier to incorporate them into your playing.

The Influence of Iconic Players

Sometimes, a little inspiration can go a long way. Studying the playing styles of iconic hair metal guitarists can offer insights into how to shape your sound.

Randy Rhoads: Known for his classical influences, Rhoads combined technical proficiency with melodic solos. Listen to his work with Ozzy Osbourne for a masterclass in blending power with precision.

Eddie Van Halen: Van Halen’s tapping technique revolutionized rock guitar. His use of harmonics and innovative solos are a treasure trove for anyone looking to push their playing further.

Slash: While on the borderline of hair metal, Slash’s bluesy, emotive style brought a unique flavor. His solos in Guns N’ Roses tracks are a great study in blending technique with feel.

Exploring the works of these guitarists can offer fresh perspectives and ideas. Try transcribing solos or riffs to better understand their approaches and incorporate elements into your own playing.

Using Backing Tracks and Metronomes

Practicing with backing tracks is an excellent way to develop your timing and feel. They simulate a band environment, allowing you to experiment with solos and rhythms in a more musical context.

Finding the Right Tracks: Many online platforms offer backing tracks specifically designed for hair metal. Look for ones in the keys and tempos you want to practice.

Metronomes: While not as exciting as backing tracks, metronomes are indispensable for building speed and precision. Start slow, ensuring each note is clean, then gradually increase the tempo.

At Riffhard, we offer a custom metronome tailored for guitar practice. It’s a great tool for tracking your progress and ensuring you’re staying in time.

Recording and Analyzing Your Playing

Recording yourself is one of the most effective ways to improve your playing. It allows you to hear areas that need work and track your progress over time.

Setting Up: You don’t need a professional studio setup. A simple audio interface and recording software on your computer will do the trick. Even a smartphone can work for basic recording.

Listening Critically: Pay attention to timing, note clarity, and dynamics. Are your solos expressive? Is your rhythm tight? Use these insights to guide your practice sessions.

Regularly recording yourself can be a game-changer. It not only helps identify areas for improvement but also builds confidence as you hear your progress over time.

Embracing the Hair Metal Aesthetic

Finally, let’s not forget that hair metal is as much about attitude as it is about technique. Embrace the theatricality and showmanship that defined the era.

Stage Presence: Hair metal was all about putting on a show. Practice moving around while playing. Engage with your audience, even if it’s just your pet dog at home for now.

Visuals: Think about your look and how it complements your sound. Whether it’s a flashy guitar, bold outfit, or dramatic stage lights, it’s about creating an experience.

Ultimately, hair metal is about having fun. It’s about energy, enthusiasm, and a bit of excess. So channel your inner rock star and let loose!

Final Thoughts

Capturing the hair metal guitar sound involves more than just mimicking the classics; it’s about understanding the elements that made the genre iconic and making them your own. Whether you’re perfecting your technique or dialing in your gear, each step brings you closer to that authentic sound. At Riffhard, we’ve got a wealth of resources and lessons from top-tier metal guitarists to help you on your journey. Embrace the journey, and enjoy the process of crafting your unique sound.